Porsche 356: 75th Anniversary

Ferdinand Porsche was a brilliant engineer who, prior to World War II, had been involved in a variety of significant automotive engineering developments in his native Germany. From the early 1900s, Porsche was developing racing cars with his most impressive examples being the mighty Auto Union Grand Prix cars of the 1930s. During this period, Porsche also developed the groundbreaking Volkswagen, which would prove critical to his postwar, namesake automobile manufacturer.

The Typ 356 was developed by Ferdinand's son "Ferry" Porsche and introduced in 1948. Though the rear-engine layout was reminiscent of the Volkswagen, most similarities ended there. The 356 had a unique chassis, higher performing engine, and a handsome wind-cheating body. Initially little known outside Germany, by the early 1950s 356s were recognized for their excellent handling, build quality, and growing volume of competition successes.

Porsche's 356 evolved over its 14-year life through four distinct series: pre-A, A, B, and C. At the same time, Stuttgart developed cabriolets, Speedsters, Carreras, and SC versions to name a few key derivatives. The 356, or parts thereof, proved the basis for numerous racing versions including Pete Lovely's "Pooper" (Cooper chassis, Porsche 356 engine), James Dean's infamous "Little Bastard," and Carrera Panamericana (Mexican Road Race) competitors.

The 356 was also an "it" car among celebrity and well-heeled car enthusiasts with an owner roster including the aforementioned Dean, Janis Joplin, Steve McQueen, Sean Connery, and Dick Smothers, among others. Today, as a highly valued collector car, owners include Jerry Seinfeld, Patrick Dempsey, Jay Leno, and John Oates.

Evolution continues for Porsche's beloved bathtub as a source vehicle for the Porsche Outlaw movement, vintage racing competitors, international concours attendees, and local cars and coffee habitues.

Porsche 356 is a must-have book for anyone that loves Porsche and sports car history.